Beverages to Skip
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the immune system. To manage it, you need to pay attention to what you drink. Some drinks can make your symptoms worse or mess with your treatment, while others can help you feel better. To help, there's ADCETRIS, a medication used to treat various types of lymphoma and certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Carcinogenic Drinks to Avoid
- Soda.
- Sugary fruit juices.
- Energy drinks.
- Alcohol.
- Sweetened iced tea.
- Processed fruit drinks.
- Flavored waters with artificial sweeteners.
- Sports drinks with added sugars.
Drinks to Avoid for Lymphoma
Alcohol
Alcohol can weaken your immune system and interact with chemotherapy drugs, potentially making them less effective. It can also increase your risk of liver damage, especially if you’re taking medications metabolized by the liver.
Sugary Beverages
Drinks high in sugar, such as sodas and sweetened juices, can lead to inflammation and weight gain, which may negatively impact your health and treatment.
Energy Drinks
These often contain high levels of caffeine and sugar, which can affect your overall health and interfere with your sleep and hydration.
High-Caffeine Beverages
Drinks like strong coffee and certain teas have high caffeine levels, which can cause dehydration and digestive issues. This can be problematic during cancer treatment.
Artificially Sweetened Drinks
Some studies suggest that artificial sweeteners might affect gut health and could be linked to potential health risks. Gut health is crucial when managing lymphoma.
Carbonated Soft Drinks
These can cause bloating and discomfort, which might worsen digestive issues related to lymphoma or its treatment.
Very Hot Beverages
Extremely hot drinks can irritate your mouth and throat, which may be sensitive due to treatment like radiation or chemotherapy.
Milkshakes or High-Fat Dairy Drinks
High-fat dairy products can be hard to digest and might contribute to nausea or discomfort, especially during chemotherapy.
Best Drinks for Lymphoma
Water
Staying hydrated is crucial. Water helps flush out toxins and keeps your body functioning well.
Herbal Teas
Herbal teas like ginger or chamomile can be soothing and might help with digestion and relaxation.
Fresh Vegetable Juices
These can provide essential nutrients and vitamins while being easier on the stomach compared to sugary or dairy-based drinks.
Smoothies with Non-Dairy Milk
Smoothies made with almond, soy or oat milk and loaded with fruits and vegetables can be a great way to get nutrients without added sugars.
Coconut Water
This is a good source of hydration and can help replenish electrolytes.
Treatment Options for Lymphoma
- Chemotherapy: This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It can be effective but may come with side effects like nausea and fatigue.
- Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy beams to target and kill cancer cells. It’s often used to treat specific areas where lymphoma is present.
- Targeted therapy: These drugs target specific molecules involved in the growth of cancer cells, often leading to fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
- Immunotherapy: This treatment boosts your immune system’s ability to fight cancer. It may include drugs that help your immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.
- Surgery: Although less common for lymphoma, surgery might be used to remove tumors or affected lymph nodes in some cases.
- Stem cell transplant: This involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells to help rebuild a strong immune system.
- ADCETRIS: ADCETRIS is a medication used to treat various types of lymphoma and certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It works by targeting and attaching to specific proteins on the surface of cancerous lymphoma cells, delivering a toxic substance that helps to kill the cancer cells and slow down their growth
Toast to Health
Making smart choices about what you drink can play a significant role in managing lymphoma and supporting your treatment. Avoiding harmful drinks and opting for healthy alternatives can help you stay hydrated and maintain overall well-being. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific dietary needs and treatment options to ensure you get the best care for your condition.
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